Creative Convergence 2024
A RICI Inclusive Arts Initiative
The Arts provide a unifying platform to enhance understanding of diversity and accessibility
Warkworth, 2 - 6 Dec 2024
RICI is excited to launch its inaugural Creative Convergence; an inclusive arts initiative in Warkworth (Rodney District, NZ) held during the first week of December 2024. This event is supported by a grant from the Rodney Local Board, via Making Art Work - Creative Rodney East.
Running from December 2–6, the What's On listings will feature pop-up activities across various Warkworth venues, with a focus on celebrating creativity, inclusion, and accessibility. In observance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on December 3, the main public events will showcase local talent, encourage diverse expressions & public participation, while promoting environmental responsibility.
Art is a universally shared language. Our goal is to foster dialogue and connection between local disabled and non-disabled artists and the wider community - to enhance the understanding and acceptance of diversity.
Click on links below for more information about the line-up of events.
What's On
MON 2 Dec: 11 - 12pm
Eco-Art Demo & Display
Handmade Papermaking demonstration and Aroha Te Ao products on show.
16 Auckland Road, Warkworth (limited parking on premises)
PH: (09) 422 3554
MON 2 Dec - 8 Dec
IDPD display at Warkworth War Memorial Library
December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), an opportunity to raise awareness and promote the rights and perspectives of people with disabilities around the world. In observance of IDPD, the library has partnered with RICI to present a pop-up book display to highlight memoirs, novels and poetry from the Libraries’ collections that focus on telling the stories of people with disabilities.
TUES 3 Dec: 10 - 11.30am
IDPD Speakers Event -
The 'Art' of Inclusion, old Council rooms (alongside Warkworth Library):
Disabled creatives & allies - Rachel Peterson, Ursula Christel + Charlotte Owens-Pring, will participate in a panel discussion to share their stories and how their creative work & projects, reflect & promote inclusion. Audience participation is encouraged in this question/ answer session.
Information about On Display Global will be shared. Hear all about the background story of this annual global sculpture court event, and the instructions to perform this live installation.
Refreshments provided.
TUES 3 Dec: 12.30 - 1.30pm
ON DISPLAY GLOBAL
at the Warkworth wharf
ON DISPLAY GLOBAL, created by Heidi Latsky Dance in New York, is a worldwide initiative that honors the United Nations' International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), through local, community-led sculpture courts. We’re inviting people of all abilities, ages, sizes, and backgrounds to join us! Whether you are disabled or non-disabled, this experience allows every participant to shine as a unique and essential part of the performance. To participate, please contact Charlotte at
charlotte@glassceilingartscollective.com
WED 4 Dec: 1 - 2pm
Accessible Yoga - with Little Yoga Warkworth & AIM
At Warkworth Town Hall
Participate in an inclusive Community Mindful Movement Class - a gentle and accessible yoga class to celebrate inclusion & wellbeing in our community. Limited spaces. *Register with Zuzana: 022 0974663
WED 4 Dec: 6 - 8pm
PHAB Club Night - Music, Dance & Disco session!!
At Shoesmith Hall, Warkworth
PHAB provides weekly social experiences for people with disabilities aged 16 and over. Activities are designed to enhance social interaction, build skills & promote independence. Our clubs are open to all, and we welcome new members looking for a fun and inclusive community. *Contact Sarah for info to join: 022-4514659
THURS 5 Dec: 10.30am
Street Art Workshop & Live Music - the Park outside Warkworth Library
A free, interactive, public art event with Ursula, Shelly & Desiree. All ages and abilities welcome to join in. Help to create fence-weaving artworks inspired by the Mahurangi River using recycled materials from Less.waste, while enjoying live music by local musician, Aysha Robertson-Straka.
Aysha's smooth mellow vocals backed by her ukelele or guitar, make the perfect combo for a laid-back mix of classic tunes + modern hits.
Don't forget to pop in to the library and visit RICI's IDPD poster + book display.
FRI 6 Dec: 10 - 11am
Accessible Music Making workshop by Glass Ceiling Arts Collective (GCAC ) - at Warkworth Town Hall
This exciting session is open to everyone and combines cutting-edge technology with traditional instruments. Use iOS devices, launch pads, and loops alongside piano, guitar, and percussion to craft unique soundscapes. You'll even have the chance to pair your music with video images, creating a truly immersive experience.
Also at Warkworth Town Hall:
Art Display - Celebrating Individual Expression & Creativity!!
An exhibition of artworks by a diverse group of local artists. A highlight is guest artist, Martin Payne from Matakana. Martin is a member of the international group Mouth and Foot Paintings Artists (MFPA).
FRI 6 Dec: 5 - 7pm The Finale!!
Performances & short films by Glass Ceiling Arts Collective - at Warkworth Town Hall
Celebrate the final day of Creative Convergence 2024, with a VARIETY SHOW like no other! Prepare to be wowed by a great line-up from Glass Ceilings’ adult and youth programs, featuring rock bands, solo acts, group numbers, musical theatre, and some of Glass Ceilings’ brand-new youth films on the big screen. With delicious food and a high-energy dance party to cap off the evening, it’s a celebration of creativity and diversity you won’t want to miss.
A free family-friendly event celebrating everyone's unique talents. Come join the fun! All welcome.
Martin Payne, Spirits Bay/Cape Reinga
International Day of
Persons with Disabilities
(IDPD)
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3rd. The 2024 theme is
"Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future."
This theme recognizes the important role that persons with disabilities play in creating a more inclusive and sustainable world for all. It also emphasizes the importance of the participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
Key Goals and Call to Action
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Celebrating the achievements of persons with disabilities.
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Promoting the leadership of persons with disabilities in all areas of life.
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Ensuring the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society.
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Increasing the participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
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Raising awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities.
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